Step 1

Heat oven to 350 degrees. Butter or oil a 8"x 4" loaf pan and coat with a teaspoon of sugar-cinnamon; tap out any excess sugar (while it's optional, this makes the loaf really good - trust me).

Step 2

In a mixing bowl beat together the sugar, zucchini, and egg. Add oil and vanilla; mix well.

Step 3

Add the dry ingredients and stir. Fold in the nuts, if using.

Step 4

Pour batter into prepared pan and sprinkle the top with a little raw sugar for more crunch, if desired. Bake for 45-50 minutes*, or until a wooden toothpick inserted near the center comes out clean.

Step 5

Cool in pan 10 minutes. Remove from pan and cool completely on a rack.